LEXINGTON, Ky. (12/19/13) – Two junior college standouts, defensive tackle Cory “C.J.” Johnson and cornerback A.J. Stamps, have signed letters of intent with the University of Kentucky.

UK head football coach Mark Stoops made the announcement during a press conference Wednesday. Johnson is a 6' 3” junior from ASA college in Brooklyn, NY. Stamps is a 6' junior from East Mississippi Junior College in Scooba, Miss.

“I’m confident these guys will come in and help us,” said Stoops. “That’s the reason we recruited them. The fact that they’re here for the whole next semester, going through our off-season conditioning and going through spring ball is really important.”

Stoops also announced that Za'Darius Smith and Alvin “Bud” Dupree would both be returning next season. He added that he is obviously disappointed in the wins and losses of the prior season, but is very pleased with the progress that was made in a lot of areas.

“We are excited about recruiting and the offseason and moving forward with wrapping up this recruiting class and moving forward with the program. Some good things are happening right now with the renovations getting started and all those good things. Exciting time and looking forward to the future,” said Stoops.